Happy Father’s Day To My Dad

My father has been my role model, mentor and best friend for the past 47 years. I credit his sage advice for many of the blessings in my life including a happy marriage, wonderful children and yes, my successful business. I learned some of the most important lessons from my father just by watching how he lived his own life. He was on his own from the age of 13 and his life experience made him resourceful, street smart and self-sufficient. Sadly, my father passed away in October and, as anyone who has lost a parent knows, the loss is unimaginable

Over the years as my father grew older, his lessons became even more valuable to me because I knew that my time with him was limited. His mind remained sharp but it was clear to him (and to me) that his body wasn’t as strong as it used to be and safety was becoming an issue. He was living alone in a house in Florida and I spent many sleepless nights worrying about potential hazards, accidents, etc.

My father wasn’t one to ask for help so, on every birthday and holiday, I gave him a gift that would make his life more manageable—an automatic garage door opener, carts to wheel out his recyclables, new appliances, shower grab bars, large print books and eventually an aide to stay with him on the weekends. He was proud and accepted my gifts with humility because I think he knew they would help him remain in the home he loved for as long as possible which thankfully, he did.

As I prepare to muddle through my first Father’s Day without him, it occurs to me that although he’s not here, my father continues to teach and guide me. Watching him live out his years in his home was the brainchild for the newest chapter in my business, www.aginginplacereferrals.com. Keeping him safe was a priority and finding contractors and service providers who could help me do that made me realize first-hand the value that my business can offer to senior homeowners and their caregivers who are in the same position as I was.

My father was my biggest fan and I was his. I know that he’s looking down on me and is proud of the business I built, the mother and wife I am and the person I’ve become. It’s all a testament to him and for that I am blessed.